RTL II gives Muslims notice

German web recognizes key Ramadan times

With Islamophobia on the rise in Europe and the topic of U.S. talkshows of every political stripe, the nearly 4 million Muslims in Germany heartily welcomed one small gesture promoting inclusion at the start of the holy month of Ramadan on Aug. 11.

German TV channel RTL II has launched a special service for Muslim viewers, informing them of the start and end of the daily fasting period by airing onscreen notices at dawn and dusk.

“You can theorize all you like about integration, but we wanted to send a clear signal. RTL II makes programs for all people and followers of all religions. Just as every year we acknowledge Christmas and Easter in our programming, we wanted to recognize our viewers of the Muslim faith during Ramadan,” says Carsten Molis, RTL II’s head of marketing.